With a few exceptions like Dre, Mitu and some others it seems only rich white kids are getting kite sponsorships and coverage in magazines. Go to DR, Brazil, Vietnam, etc and you will see local kids on old kites throwing down harder than most "pros" on new gear. For example doing slims, mobe 5s and other harder tricks both ways and with style. How come these locals aren't getting more recognition?

Its a good point, but I think part of sponsoring someone is also about them being a spokesman for the brand. Whitey gets chosen a lot because a lot of the time he speaks English and that is probably the most common language for the kite community (see kiteforum.com). Many "locals" dont speak english on a level that will make it interesting to listen to in the videos and promos.

A good example is Neto from Cumbuco, who was always an amazing ripper, but i think his improved English has made him much more marketable by L.F. moreso than his amazing style. Also if you havent seen him ride you are missing out.

Unfortunately even the ones that get chosen frequently sound like total idiots when they talk about the gear or kiting, but i suspect that might be a side effect of hard crashes.

Post subject: Re: How come only Whitey gets the sponsorships? Reply with quote
Its a good point, but I think part of sponsoring someone is also about them being a spokesman for the brand. Whitey gets chosen a lot because a lot of the time he speaks English and that is probably the most common language for the kite community (see kiteforum.com). Many "locals" dont speak english on a level that will make it interesting to listen to in the videos and promos.

A good example is Neto from Cumbuco, who was always an amazing ripper, but i think his improved English has made him much more marketable by L.F. moreso than his amazing style. Also if you havent seen him ride you are missing out.

Unfortunately even the ones that get chosen frequently sound like total idiots when they talk about the gear or kiting, but i suspect that might be a side effect of hard crashes.

mz16 wrote:Its a good point, but I think part of sponsoring someone is also about them being a spokesman for the brand. Whitey gets chosen a lot because a lot of the time he speaks English and that is probably the most common language for the kite community (see kiteforum.com). Many "locals" dont speak english on a level that will make it interesting to listen to in the videos and promos.

Mmmhhh, you mean: 'Hello, my name is [name here]. I'm a professional kiteboarder.' ?

Those locals would contribute in their country they are living in, so I believe that is not really a valid argument. Maybe by the kite companies but then they should think outside the square.

I think to get a sponsorship in any sport you need to get out there and be noticed. compete or proliferate yourself on the internet which skilleds stunts. competing and or uploading amaising video footage cost money. Money I guess your average Vietnamese ripper does not have. remember its different world over there. their entire family may only earn $200 per month.

I think to get a sponsorship in any sport you need to get out there and be noticed. compete or proliferate yourself on the internet which skilleds stunts. competing and or uploading amaising video footage cost money. Money I guess your average Vietnamese ripper does not have. remember its different world over there. their entire family may only earn $200 per month.